Apple boots $1000 app

Techtree News Staff, Aug 09, 2008 1120 hrs IST

Apparently eight people bought the $1000 iPhone program that does nothing. Yay?

UPDATE: Eight people have bought this application, surprise surprise; Apple has removed it though. Apple doesn't care about rich people. The original story follows.

In what is surely a poke at the powers that be -- software developer Armin Heinrich, has released an application for the iPhone that does pretty much nothing, for a low, low price of $1000.

The application is nothing but a display of a glowing red ruby, and is called I Am Rich, clicking on the little i in the corner of the app is supposed to bring up a secret mantra to "help you to stay rich, healthy, and successful". As Harry McCracken, of Technologizer, who brought us this story puts it: "Unless Heinrich decides to hand out reviewer's copies of I Am Rich, I may never learn what that mantra is."

More than anything, this app highlights the erratic way in which Apple's clearance process for iPhone applications works. Apple has been playing yo-yo with Nullriver's NetShare tethering application -- putting it up, then pulling it down; and has taken down the Box Office movie app. All of which only highlights the absurdity of the I Am Rich application being available on the App Store. We can't help but think Armin is making a statement through this app; but just what is that statement: rich people will buy anything, or is it -- Apple will release anything as long as it doesn't upset the powers that be?

So, what's the policy here Apple? Is a coin-toss involved?

USER COMMENTS

Who decides if a LouisVitton handbag is really worth 10 grands I am willing to pay for it? Does anyone have any objection if I am willing to shell out a million bucks for an artwork? Value is the price is what someone is willing to pay for something. To protect the consumer, Apple could probably come up with a money-back policy. The seller refunds the money in a week, if asked for, no questions asked.

by Priyank, Bangalore, on Aug 15, 2008 03:13 PM, Report abuse Reply

by Priyank, Bangalore, on Aug 15, 2008 03:12 PM, Report abuse Reply

Yeah well apple will take $990 dollars in commisions.

by Tom allen, UK, on Aug 15, 2008 01:34 PM, Report abuse Reply

Degrade 'App' le - or 'The App' if you must. First, get all the 'FREE' stuff, then... try to resist additional items that are at the insane low cost of .99 cents. Now.. slowly move up to the higher priced "App" ($3.99) that we (likely) will not become too obsessed with -but may eventually replace with some other. Be honest though ... look at people who go to see a 'Washed up' entertainer whose voice now cracks and stings in a lower key. Do these 'customers' Know any better? They shell out $500 to $1500 to a scalper and then sit in the 'I might as well be listening to this at home on the Radio' section. I dont pity them - ... I marvel at the happiness they fool themselves into feeling and then somehow pull it off! I will look ahead to read your future critique of Rich people - and what will eventually become one of the richest corporations the computing world will ultimately witness... Laugh- er.. 'Apping' its way all the way to the bank!

by Linda Trotter, Ocala, on Aug 11, 2008 11:47 PM, Report abuse Reply

8 people bought the $1000 app that does nothing. Explains the reason Apple zealots buy Apple product in the first place. Two qualifications for an Apple owner - Rich and Stupid.

by Micky, Delhi, on Aug 08, 2008 07:30 PM, Report abuse Reply

Bad. This is the type of thing that steers us non-apple folks away and makes us think, "Thank God I'm not on the bandwagon!"

by Jay, San Antonio, TX, on Aug 06, 2008 11:18 PM, Report abuse Reply

Just because the appstore is buggy doesn't mean the ipod itself is bad. You're probably jealous you don't have one and secretly despise those who do :)

by Anonymous, Austin, TX, on Aug 08, 2008 12:47 PM, Report abuse

Is the authors name a play on "I'm in Hell and rich"?

by Pete, Nashville, on Aug 07, 2008 08:51 PM, Report abuse Reply

Haaha. Excellent spot there, Pete

by ahm, mum, on Aug 08, 2008 07:23 AM, Report abuse

Apple also seems to be 'approving' apps that are VERY buggy... and will crash your iPhone.

by Carol, Boston, on Aug 06, 2008 03:42 PM, Report abuse Reply

no comments

by Sainath Sastry, Hyderabad, on Aug 06, 2008 12:22 PM, Report abuse Reply

Seriously. Apple really needs to get it together and give the people what they want. This is yet another slap in the face to iPhone buyers.

by shea, Chico, on Aug 06, 2008 12:00 PM, Report abuse Reply